Curriculum is an organized plan for student learning.
In higher education, this plan includes the courses students are required to take and the courses students can elect to take to fulfill their degree. Curriculum can also include required experiences and opportunities such as capstones and/or internships, as well as optional or extracurricular experiences and opportunities such as exchanges and conferences.
Being thoughtful about curriculum can enhance students’ learning and provide greater cohesion in teaching and learning.
This work involves visioning the student experience in your program, establishing Learning Outcomes for what they will learn, and ensuring that you have an assessment plan for making sure students are learning what you have planned for them to learn. This is what we call the three “Ds” of curriculum development: Dream, design, and determine.
Curriculum development is done when planning a new program, but can also take place when engaging in the Cyclical Program Review process, when proposing the modification of an established program, or any time when the structure of a program could be reassessed and refreshed.
York has a variety of resources and services that can help you with all the elements of program and curriculum development and innovation. Along with this website, see links below for specific services and resources to help you with this process.
Useful Contacts
Office of the Vice Provost Academic
Browse this site or contact us for overall curriculum renewal and innovation support related to programs.
York Quality Assurance Procedures (YUQAP)
An important resource for the development of new programs, major modifications, and cyclical program reviews.
Office of Institutional Planning & Analysis (OIPA)
Providing both data and support regarding market research and enrolment planning.
Providing support and resources for enhancing teaching practices aligned newly developed or renewed curriculum.
University Information Technology (UIT)
Providing support for technology enhanced learning, including eClass.
Find the appropriate policies, procedures, and regulations for programs and governance.
Interested in renewing or innovating your curriculum?
Explore our resources or contact our Program and Curriculum Development Specialist for support.